Aerolite has been making budget luggage in the UK for over 20 years. Their retro-styled hard shell sets stand out from the sea of identical black suitcases, combining vintage aesthetics with modern features at a competitive price.
What You Get
The 3-piece set includes:
| Size | Dimensions (Body) | Weight | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabin (21″) | 46 x 35 x 20cm | 2.7kg | ~32L |
| Medium (25″) | 64 x 46 x 27cm | 3.4kg | ~65L |
| Large (29″) | 73 x 51 x 30cm | 4.2kg | ~95L |
The cabin size meets most airline carry-on requirements including Ryanair (Priority), easyJet, British Airways, and most European and US carriers. Check your specific airline’s restrictions before flying.
The Design
The retro styling sets Aerolite apart from generic luggage. Mock leather straps, riveted corners, and a vintage trunk aesthetic make these cases distinctive – and easier to spot on a baggage carousel.
The shell is ABS plastic with reinforced corner protectors. It’s lighter than polycarbonate but less impact-resistant. Adequate for typical travel, though serious abuse will show.
All cases feature:
- Four dual spinner wheels (360° movement)
- Push-button telescopic handle with multiple heights
- Three-digit combination lock
- Packing straps and zipped divider inside
- Mesh pocket for documents
Build Quality
For the price, the build quality is reasonable. The spinner wheels roll smoothly and handle airport floors well. The telescopic handle has some wobble but locks securely. Zippers are decent quality – not premium but functional.
The ABS shell is scratch-resistant and lightweight but won’t survive being thrown or crushed. The reinforced corners help, but this is budget luggage built to budget standards.
What works:
- Lightweight construction doesn’t eat into your baggage allowance
- Distinctive styling stands out
- Wheels are smooth and manoeuvrable
- Nested storage (smaller cases fit inside larger)
What doesn’t:
- ABS is less durable than polycarbonate
- Handle wobble under heavy loads
- Basic interior organisation
- Combination lock isn’t TSA-approved
Warranty
Aerolite offers a 5-year warranty covering manufacturing defects. This is reasonable for the price point, though it doesn’t cover airline damage or general wear. Based on customer reports, actually claiming can take time.
Who Should Buy This
Good for:
- Occasional travellers who want something distinctive
- Budget-conscious buyers who want hard shell luggage
- Anyone tired of identical black suitcases
- Families needing multiple cases without major expense
Look elsewhere if:
- You travel very frequently (invest in polycarbonate)
- You check bags on budget airlines that handle luggage roughly
- You need TSA-approved locks for US travel
- You want premium durability and materials
Compared to Alternatives
| Brand | Style | Material | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aerolite | Retro | ABS | £80-150 (set) |
| Tripp | Modern | ABS/Polycarbonate | £30-120 (per case) |
| Snug | Modern | ABS | £60-100 (set) |
| Samsonite | Various | Polycarbonate | £150-400+ (per case) |
For similar money, Tripp offers more durable construction in less distinctive styling. Samsonite costs significantly more but delivers genuine quality. Aerolite’s value proposition is budget price plus distinctive looks.
Verdict
The Aerolite set delivers on its promise: retro-styled hard shell luggage at a budget price. The distinctive design makes it easy to spot, and the 5-year warranty provides some reassurance. Don’t expect premium quality or exceptional durability – this is functional luggage for occasional use.
If you want something different from generic black cases without spending Samsonite money, Aerolite is worth considering. For frequent travellers or rough handling, spend more on something more robust.
